Name: Mulled Apple Juice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1 litre (1¾ pints) apple juice; 1 cinnamon stick, plus 6 more for garnish; 6 cloves; 4 wide strips orange zest; 1 knob stem ginger in syrup, sliced (optional); 1 tablespoon syrup from the stem ginger jar (optional); Small pinch ground allspice

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A steaming mug of mulled apple juice is just what I need when the temperature drops. This cozy, spiced drink brings together the natural sweetness of apple juice with a comforting blend of warming spices. It’s a non-alcoholic alternative to mulled wine, making it ideal for all ages and occasions—from quiet nights at home to festive holiday gatherings.

Mulled Apple Juice Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and easy it is to prepare this drink—just toss everything in a pot and let it simmer. The scent alone is enough to lift my spirits on a cold day. It’s not just delicious, it’s also naturally vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, and pregnancy-friendly. Whether I’m serving it to kids or sipping it solo by the fire, this recipe always delivers comfort in a cup.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 litre (1¾ pints) apple juice
1 cinnamon stick, plus 6 more for garnish
6 cloves
4 wide strips orange zest
1 knob stem ginger in syrup, sliced (optional)
1 tablespoon syrup from the stem ginger jar (optional)
Small pinch ground allspice

Directions

I start by placing all the ingredients into a large saucepan.
I bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, letting the spices infuse the juice.
Once it starts to bubble softly, I reduce the heat to low and let it mull for about 15 minutes.
After that, I strain the juice to remove the solids and pour it into mugs.
To finish, I garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick for that classic mulled look and aroma.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: Less than 30 minutes
Cook time: 10 to 30 minutes
Total time: Around 30 minutes

Variations

Spiced Citrus Twist: I sometimes add a splash of fresh orange juice or a few star anise for extra zing.
Sweeter Touch: If I’m craving something sweeter, I stir in a little honey or maple syrup.
Herbal Kick: A sprig of rosemary or thyme adds an herbal depth to the flavor.
Alcoholic Option: For an adult version, I add a shot of dark rum or calvados.
Fruity Blend: I like to experiment by blending in pear juice or cranberry juice for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, I just pour the juice into a saucepan and warm it gently over low heat—never boiling, just enough to bring back the comforting aroma and flavor.

FAQs

What’s the best apple juice to use for mulled apple juice?

I prefer using a high-quality, cloudy apple juice for a richer, more natural flavor. It gives the drink more depth than clear apple juice.

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely. I often make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen over time. I just reheat gently before serving.

Is it okay to skip the stem ginger?

Yes, the stem ginger and syrup are optional. If I don’t have any on hand, I simply leave them out or substitute with a slice of fresh ginger.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Definitely. I just combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and set it on low for about 1–2 hours. It’s great for parties since it stays warm.

Can I serve this chilled?

While it’s traditionally served hot, I sometimes chill it and serve it over ice with a splash of soda water for a refreshing twist.

Conclusion

This mulled apple juice recipe is one I come back to every winter. It’s simple to make, comforting to drink, and endlessly customizable. Whether I’m hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening, it brings warmth to any occasion.